Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has urged Nigerians whose United States visas have been revoked or cancelled to return home instead of remaining abroad illegally. The former lawmaker, known for his outspoken activism and candid commentary on national issues, made the appeal in a social media post on Sunday, stressing that there is no shame in returning to Nigeria to rebuild one’s life. His remarks followed reports of the U.S. government tightening its visa and immigration policies, resulting in the revocation of several foreign nationals’ visas, including Nigerians.
Sani noted that while many Nigerians aspire to live and work abroad, those whose visas have been withdrawn should see it as an opportunity to rethink their plans and contribute to national development at home. According to him, staying illegally in another country or attempting to evade immigration authorities could lead to unnecessary hardship, detention, or deportation. He emphasized that Nigerians should not view returning home as a sign of failure but as a step toward self-determination and dignity. “If your U.S. visa is revoked, do not panic, and do not live in fear. Come back home; this is your country. There is no need to keep hiding. Start afresh here and contribute to making Nigeria better,” Sani stated.
The former senator, who represented Kaduna Central in the 8th National Assembly, also pointed out that visa revocations are not personal attacks but administrative measures often based on policy shifts, security concerns, or technical issues. He argued that Nigeria remains a land of opportunities despite its challenges and that citizens abroad should not feel trapped by the allure of foreign lands. “The same America you dream of is a country that was built by its people. We too can build ours if we put in the same energy,” he said. Sani also appealed to the Nigerian government to extend support to citizens who might be forced to return home due to changing immigration laws in the U.S. and other countries.
In his message, Sani called on federal and state governments to design reintegration and empowerment programs for returnees, stressing that many Nigerians abroad left because of limited economic prospects. “Those returning should not be left stranded or hopeless. Government must create opportunities through skills training, entrepreneurship grants, and agricultural support. The goal should be to turn their return into a blessing for the economy,” he advised.
The senator’s comments come amid growing concerns about the treatment of African immigrants in the United States and Europe. Over the past few months, several African professionals and students have shared experiences of sudden visa cancellations and delays in renewal applications. Immigration experts suggest that the U.S. Department of State has intensified scrutiny of visa holders from developing nations as part of a broader effort to enforce stricter migration control. This has raised anxiety among Nigerians studying or working abroad, many of whom fear being stranded.
Sani, known for his human rights activism before joining politics, reminded Nigerians that migration should not be viewed as the only path to success. He said that while international experience can be valuable, building a stable and prosperous homeland is ultimately more fulfilling. “We must stop believing that salvation lies outside our borders. A strong and united Nigeria can give every citizen what they seek abroad security, dignity, and opportunity,” he added.
He also called for improved governance and accountability at all levels, arguing that poor leadership and corruption are the root causes of the mass exodus of skilled Nigerians. “If our leaders do the right thing provide good schools, hospitals, electricity, and jobs our youths will not risk their lives crossing deserts and oceans in search of greener pastures,” he said.
Sani’s message has sparked conversations among Nigerians on social media, with some supporting his call for return and others insisting that the government must first fix the socio-economic problems that drive citizens abroad. Many users agreed that while returning home is honorable, Nigeria must provide a conducive environment for returnees to thrive.
His appeal comes at a time when the federal government is working to strengthen ties with the Nigerian diaspora, which contributes billions of dollars annually through remittances. Experts believe that if well-managed, the return of skilled Nigerians could boost innovation and entrepreneurship in key sectors. However, others caution that without adequate planning, the influx of returnees could strain an already struggling economy.
As debates continue, Sani’s message serves as a reminder of the importance of national self-reliance and dignity. His call resonates with a broader sentiment that Nigeria’s long-term development depends not only on policies but also on the collective will of its people both at home and abroad to believe in and invest in their nation’s future.
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